Heritage steam railway with reasonable wheelchair access
4
4
Date of visit: October 2026
I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: accessing toilets, dexterity or coordination and moving around.
I use or have experience of: assistance dog, disabled toilet, wheelchair
Overall Rating
Good
We had a day on the steam railway whilst on holiday on the Isle of Man. It was a lovely day out! You need to let them know in advance that you'll be travelling but they had the ramp out ready and they had remembered our journey plan.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
There is step-free entry into the station but the doors are narrow double doors and it was easier to just send hubby in to buy the tickets. Access onto the train was great. The ramp was already in place and it wasn't steep. I could get onto the train independently. We had to travel in a small guards van, which wasn't perfect, but we had it to ourselves and the views were spectacular!
Accessible facilities: Step-free entrance
Parking & Transport
Average
I travelled to this place by personal vehicle
There is a car park and it has accessible spaces, but we were travelling by motorhome and there is hardly anywhere nearby suitable to park. We parked on Bank Hill, next to the station. It was okay but very steep and difficult for me to manage in my chair.
Accessible facilities: Public or on street parking
Accessible Toilets
Average
In theory, there is an accessible toilet at Douglas station, but it was locked and I couldn't get in. At Port Erin station, there was an accessible toilet, which was fine. It was clean and big enough to get in and move around.
Facilities: Accessible toilet
Staff
Good
Most of the staff were lovely... especially the staff on the trains. They were happy to help with the ramp.
Additional Information
You have to remember, these trains were never built with accessibility in mind. If you expect a perfect experience, you'll be disappointed. We just wanted to be able to enjoy a train ride to the south of the island, and we had a great day out!
